The Zambia Police Service (ZP) has warned […]

The Zambia Police Service (ZP) has warned officers against overcharging members of the public cornered for contravention offenses beyond the stipulated K54.

 Speaking in an interview with the Zambian Business Times, police spokesperson Godfrey Chilabi urged the members of the public to request receipts after the admission-of-guilty fine is paid.

“Members of the public should request official receipts for any fines paid. If an officer demands more money, that should be reported immediately to supervisors or the officer in charge,” he said. This was in response to growing public concerns over the enforcement of contravention offenses, commonly known as “Shishita,” amid complaints of unfair arrests and alleged extortion by some police officers.

Chilabi acknowledged receiving isolated complaints from members of the public who claim they are sometimes arrested just a few meters from their homes while criminals and suspected drug users roam freely.

 He explained that police officers are legally mandated to apprehend individuals found committing offenses that meet the legal threshold for contravention offenses. He stated that once apprehended, suspects are formally charged and given an opportunity to either admit to or deny the offense.

 “If someone feels they have been unfairly arrested, they are free to deny the charge and have the matter taken to court,” Chilabi said. Chilabi cautioned citizens against resorting to bribery, noting that some individuals worsen the situation by offering officers money to avoid lawful procedures.

“Unfortunately, some people choose to bribe officers and only complain afterward. To stop corruption, the public must report these incidents promptly,” he added.

 Addressing concerns about corruption among senior officers, Chilabi defended station commanders, stating that officers in charge are generally vetted and capable leaders.

However, he encouraged members of the public dissatisfied with local responses to escalate complaints to district commanding officers or external oversight institutions such as the Police Public Complaints Commission and the Human Rights Commission.

Addressing complaints from individuals arrested near their homes during curfew hours, Chilabi urged citizens to comply with the law and avoid confrontations with officers.

He stressed that wrongful arrests carry legal consequences for offending officers but emphasized that justice can only prevail if victims formally challenge charges through legal channels. He further appealed for greater public cooperation in fighting both misconduct and corruption.

Article by Karen Ngulube